* Quantum Mechanics: Electrons exist in a state of probability. They don't have a defined path or trajectory like a ball. Instead, they occupy orbitals, which represent regions of space where the probability of finding an electron is high.
* Energy Transitions: When an electron "jumps" between orbitals, it's not a physical movement but a change in energy state. This occurs when an electron absorbs or releases energy, such as from a photon of light.
* Instantaneous: These transitions are considered instantaneous, meaning they occur very rapidly.
So, to answer your question, electrons don't "move" between orbitals in a traditional sense. They transition between energy levels, which happens very quickly.
Here's a simplified analogy:
Imagine an electron as a cloud. It's not a solid object but a fuzzy region of probability. When the electron absorbs energy, it's like the cloud expanding to a higher energy level (a larger orbital). When it releases energy, the cloud shrinks back down to a lower energy level (a smaller orbital).
Note: There are cases where electrons can move within orbitals, but this is a different phenomenon.
